Library Assistant

Reports to: Librarian - Information Services

FLSA Status: Nonexempt

Salary Grade: 10A

2026 Wage: $21.37 per hour

JOB SUMMARY

The Library Assistant supports the daily operations, programs, and services of the library, helping to create a welcoming, organized, and engaging environment for all patrons. This position plays a key role in providing excellent customer service, assisting with circulation tasks, offering readers' advisory, and promoting literacy for all ages.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Assists patrons at the Information or Children's area desks using the library's automated system; checks materials in and out; places holds on materials; collects monies for copies, fines, and lost or damaged items; issues library cards; assists patrons in locating materials in the collection.
• Answers in-person and phone inquiries; provides reference services and instructions to customers via print, media, and computer resources and library databases. Assists patrons with reference queries and genealogical research. Helps customers locate needed materials and refers customers to other appropriate assistance.
• Assists patrons in the use of computer applications and databases and in the use of the on-line public access catalog; answers technology questions and helps with specialized equipment such as copiers, microfilm readers, and document scanners.
• Plans and conducts programs, activities and other specialized programs as assigned.
• Receives and processes new materials. Catalogs materials using automated systems such as OCLC and Polaris/Innovative Integrated Library System.
• Assists with the curation and maintenance of the library collection.
• Sorts and distributes incoming mail; prepares outgoing mail.
• Works with interlibrary loan software. Perform such duties as: verifying and ordering ILL items, lending, and referring ILL requests, receiving, mailing, and updating ILL requests, maintaining custom holdings, answering questions, and providing technical support to patrons and staff regarding ILL services and helping to create ILL policies and procedures.
• Supervises the work of part-time staff and volunteers as assigned.
• Design posters and special displays to promote use of library facilities or specific programs.
• Sorts library materials according to procedures and returns them to shelves, files, or other designated storage areas.
• Performs related duties.

KNOWLEDGE REQUIRED BY THE POSITION

• Knowledge of patron services principles.
• Knowledge of computers and job-related software programs and databases.
• Knowledge of money handling principles.
• Knowledge of library materials preparation and maintenance principles.
• Skill in the provision of patron services.
• Skill in the use of modern office equipment.
• Skill in the use of an automated library system.
• Skill in interpersonal relations.
• Skills in oral and written communication.

SUPERVISORY CONTROLS

The Library Director assigns work in terms of general instructions. This position reports to the Information Services Librarian. The Information Services Librarian spot-checks completed work for compliance with procedures, accuracy, and the nature and propriety of the final results.

GUIDELINES

Guidelines include city and library policies and procedures. These guidelines are generally clear and specific but may require some interpretation in application.

COMPLEXITY/SCOPE OF WORK

• The work consists of related administrative and patron service duties. Frequent interruptions contribute to the complexity of the position.
• The purpose of this position is to provide administrative and patron services support for the day-to-day operation of the city library.
• Successful performance in this position ensures the effective and efficient operation of the library.

CONTACTS

• Contacts are typically with coworkers, other city personnel, vendors, educators, and the general public.
• Contacts are typically to give or exchange information, resolve problems, and provide services.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS/ WORK ENVIRONMENT

• The work is typically performed while intermittently sitting, standing, stooping, walking, bending, or crouching. The employee frequently lifts light and heavy objects, distinguishes between shades of color, and utilizes the sense of smell.
• The work is typically performed in a library.

SUPERVISORY AND MANAGEMENT RESPONSIBILITY

None.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Ability to read, write and perform mathematical calculations at a level commonly associated with the completion of high school or equivalent.
• Sufficient experience to understand the basic principles relevant to the major duties of the position, usually associated with the completion of an apprenticeship/internship or having had a similar position for one to two years.

RESIDENCY

All new hires must reside within 40 miles of city limits unless specific approval of City Manager.

To apply for this position, please complete the application and submit it by either emailing it to or delivering it to the Human Resources office in City Hall.